PCB fines U Akmal, Junaid for Pakistan Cup brawl

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has fined Umar Akmal and Junaid Khan 50% of their match fee for their misbehavior in an event related to Pakistan Cup match last month. The inquiry committee, which was set up by the PCB to look into the verbal brawl between international players, submitted its findings to the board on Wednesday (May 17).

“The Pakistan Cricket Board has imposed a fine, i.e. fifty percent of the match fee, to Umar Akmal and Junaid Khan for their misconduct at the Pakistan Cup 2017 held last month in Rawalpindi,” PCB said in a statement.

“The Board has also warned the two players that they will be under observation for a month starting 18th May and reoccurrence of breach of discipline will lead to one-month suspension.”

Umar, who lead Punjab in the 50-over tournament, while speaking to Fazeela Saba during the toss in the match against Sindh was asked about changes in the team. When questioned as to why Junaid is not picked in the line-up, Umar said he was surprised by fast bowler’s absence at the ground.

“I just found out when I walked into the ground that he [Junaid] is absent,” Umar had said. “I’m very surprised. The manager and coach told me he’s not going to be playing today. It’s shocking news for me, as captain.”

In reply, Junaid, in a refutation issued through a video clip on social media, said he was suffering from food poisoning and had been advised rest by the team doctor.

“I am saddened to hear the remarks Umar Akmal made on television, saying ‘I ran away from the team’. I have not run away,” Junaid said.

“I am dealing with a case of food poisoning and the team management is aware of that. In fact, I was advised by the team doctor not to play today. Umar Akmal knew of this, and it was a shock for me to hear him say what he did, and I don’t know why he said it.”